Computer Engineering

What is Computer Engineering?

Computer engineering involves the development of embedded and high-performance computers found in modern products. Computer engineers design hardware and software, integrating digital electronics, circuit theory, programming and networks.

They design everything from computer systems (PCs, supercomputers) to portable consumer electronics (such as mobile phones, and gaming consoles).

Making an impact

Computer Engineering students focus on developing hardware and industrial software, specifically embedded computer systems that we find in cars, cell phones, UAVs, rockets, microwave ovens and other appliances, radio and radar systems and medical equipment like CT scanners and X-ray machines. The range of industries in which Computer Engineering graduates are found is extensive.

Degree pathway

All Bachelor of Engineering with Honours students begin with an Intermediate Year followed by three years of study called the Professional Years. 

• Intermediate Year
• Computer Engineering study explained
• Bachelor of Engineering with Honours overview
• List of degree courses and regulations for the BE(Hons) Computer Engineering

Programme themes

Computer Engineering is centred around embedded devices with several other specialised areas incorporated into the degree. These include:

• Design and management
• Signals, systems and controls, robotics
• Networks and communications
• Software 
• Graphics and HCI
• Algorithms and machine learning
• Electronics
• Mathematics
• Minor in Communications and Network Engineering 

A minor is a specialist area that represents a concentration in a broad-based degree programme. By taking a set of specialist courses you would be eligible to apply for this minor and this would appear on your transcript. This would not appear on your degree certificate. The current Computer Engineering course options required for a minor are: COSC 264, COSC 364, COSC 418, ENEL 320, ENEL 400 *, ENEL 422

Workshop and practical work requirements

Completing 800 hours of practical work is a degree requirement for the BE(Hons). Computer Engineering students must also complete ENEL 199 Basic Workshop Course and ENEL 198 Electrical Workshop Course within the First Professional Year.

• Information on the workshop courses are available on student portal Learn pages for ENEL198 and ENEL199.
• Book a workshop course through UC My Timetable.
• See the College of Engineering's overview of practical work and industry links